Signs and symptoms of vertigo

Vertigo refers to a sensation of movement even when one is stationary. It differs from dizziness as it is characterized by an illusion of movement. When an individual feels himself moving, it is known as subjective vertigo.

When an individual perceives movement in his surroundings, it is known as objective vertigo. There are various factors which can cause vertigo. Problems present in the inner ear or the brain can lead to vertigo.

The most common type of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or BPPV wherein there is a feeling of motion when sudden head movements occur. It can also occur when the head is moved in a specific direction. This is not a serious form of vertigo and can be treated. Vertigo that occurs suddenly and is accompanied by hearing loss may be the result of an inner ear inflammation. This is most commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections of the inner ear. Severe vertigo is a symptom of a condition known as Meniere’s disease. Individuals affected with this condition also experience tinnitus or ringing in the ears and loss of hearing. A tumor that develops in the nerve tissue, known as acoustic neuroma, is another cause of vertigo.

Accompanying symptoms include tinnitus and hearing loss in one side. Vertigo can also occur when there is a reduced flow of blood to the brain. People with multiple sclerosis may sometimes experience a sudden onset vertigo. Other causes of vertigo include trauma to the head, migraine and arteriosclerosis.

Vertigo should not be confused with lightheadedness or fainting. It is also different from motion sickness which occurs due to repetitive motions such as riding in a vehicle. The main symptom of vertigo is a feeling of movement or disorientation. Individuals with vertigo may also experience certain other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, irregular eye movements and sweating. The symptoms may last for just a few minutes or may persist for hours. The symptoms may also occur in occasional bouts or they may be constant. Episodic symptoms may be brought about by changes in position or movement. A ringing noise in the ear and hearing loss are some of the other predominant signs of vertigo. In addition, the individual may also experience weakness, trouble while speaking, a reduced level of consciousness, visual disturbance and difficulty in walking. A doctor should be consulted when any of these signs and symptoms are observed. Most cases of vertigo are usually harmless and the causes can be treated through medication. It is important to keep the doctor informed about any new symptoms so that other serious health problems can be ruled out.

Treatment for vertigo depends upon the cause. Usually vertigo treatment involves oral medications. Skin patches and intravenous medication may also be administered in some cases. Certain types of vertigo may require different treatment. Antibiotics are necessary for bacterial infections of the ear. Those with Meniere’s disease may be advised to go on a low sodium diet. Medication that increases the urine output may also be prescribed. Natural treatment for vertigo involves vestibular rehabilitation exercises wherein the individual must lie down on one side and then switch to the other side until the symptoms disappear. Massage therapy is also known to be beneficial in relieving vertigo symptoms. A home remedy for vertigo involves consuming a boiled concoction of coriander seeds and dried Indian gooseberry powder. It is advisable to avoid smoking as this may aggravate the symptoms. It is also advisable to incorporate some light exercise in the daily routine as this will help to ease vertigo symptoms. Many individuals also opt for homeopathic treatment of vertigo.